The notes written in German, which the famed physicist gave to a Tokyo courier in November 1922 in lieu of a tip, contain two aphorisms for happiness.

The first, which sold for $1.56 million, reads: "A calm and humble life will bring more happiness than the pursuit of success and the constant restlessness that comes with it," according to a translation from the auction house, the Israel-based Winner's.

He was traveling to Asia when news that he had won the Nobel Prize for Physics reached him via telegraph. Einstein was unable to attend the prize-giving in Stockholm, but received a rapturous welcome in the Japanese capital.

Capitalizing on his newfound fame, he gave the two notes to the messenger, who had delivered something to his room. Tipping is not customary in Japan.